Masterminds in vlogger’s slay identified, charged

Vlogger Alicia “Mima Alicia” Lipata

MALAY, AKLAN, Philippines — At least two masterminds in the July 17 killing of vlogger Alicia “Mima Alicia” Lipata, the chief of the Philippine National Police said on Friday, adding Lipata’s death was in connection with an alleged P8-million debt.

Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., however, declined to identify the suspects who remain at large, among other details such as the crimes they were charged with and the court where they were charged.

But the PNP chief quoted police investigators as saying that the suspects were a businessman and his partner.

“They have a personal grudge [against Lipata] na nagsimula sa utang (that had to do with her debts),” Nartatez told reporters on the sidelines of a symposium on Boracay Island in this town. “As of now, that is the motive … Si Mima ang may utang (It’s Mima who owes money).”

READ: Cops probe online activities of slain pro-Marcos vlogger

“Cases have been filed. They are named. We’ve unmasked them, but they are at large,” the PNP chief said, adding that he cannot identify the masterminds because of the “ongoing” case.

Riding in tandem

Lipata, a known supporter of President Marcos, was gunned down by suspects riding in tandem in front of her home in Caloocan City early morning on July 17.

READ: ‘Pro-Marcos vlogger’ dead, 1 hurt in Caloocan City shooting

The 58-year-old gunman and the motorcycle rider, 48, were arrested in Mabalacat City, Pampanga, on July 23.

The PNP previously said the suspects may have been hired to carry out Lipata’s killing. /cb